EYE ON THE MASTER

EYE ON THE MASTER
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 by GAIL SCOATES

Categories: devotional / GUEST AUTHORS / TUESDAY'S TREASURE

PLEASE WELCOME

GAIL SCOATES

TUESDAY’S TREASURE

Have you ever noticed how much peace comes when you trust someone who knows the way? Whether it’s following a GPS through an unfamiliar city or working with a mentor, there’s comfort in not having to figure everything out on your own. The same is true in our walk with God. We don’t have to wander, unsure of where to step next.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you (Psalm 32:8, NIV).

Scripture assures us that God Himself lovingly teaches and guides us when we seek Him. But trusting in that guidance can be hard. Sometimes, like a spirited puppy learning obedience, we want to do things our own way. Henry’s story reminds us what it looks like to look up—to turn our eyes toward the One who leads us.

Henry is a bright-eyed yellow Labrador retriever puppy, bursting with energy and enthusiasm. But as with most young dogs, Henry hasn’t yet learned how to control his impulses. He dashes after every moving leaf, barks when he wants attention, and pulls against the leash in excitement.

His owner, Janet, knows Henry’s potential.

She can see the loyal, gentle companion he will one day become—but for now, he needs direction. So, she begins by teaching Henry to look at her. Every time he lifts his eyes toward her when she gives a command, he’s rewarded with a treat and praise.

When he ignores her or disobeys, she offers a gentle correction. Over time, Henry begins to understand that life goes better when he looks to Janet for support. Her guidance helps him navigate the confusing world around him, and as he learns to trust her, he becomes calmer, more confident, and easier to be around.

Psalm 33:18 (GNT). “The Lord watches over those who obey him, those who trust in his constant love.”

We aren’t so different from Henry. We, too, get distracted by the moving parts in life. We rush ahead, convinced we know best, only to find ourselves tangled in the misguided efforts of our own choices. But our loving Father doesn’t give up on us. Like Janet with Henry, God gently calls our attention back to Him. Through His Word, prayer, and the nudging of the Holy Spirit, He teaches us to “look up”, to seek His counsel and follow His direction.

Psalm 73:24 (NASB). beautifully captures this truth: “You will guide me with your plan, and afterward receive me to glory.”

God guides us throughout our lives, and all the way to our final home. When we trust His loving direction, we can walk with peace and confidence, knowing that His watchful eye never leaves us.

Just as Henry learned to look up to Janet for cues and reassurance, we can learn to keep our eyes on the Master, our heavenly Father, for wisdom, strength, and calm in every circumstance. The more we practice seeking His face, the more our hearts align with His will—and the more others will see the peace of Christ reflected in us.

So today, take a moment to pause and “look up.” Ask God to guide your steps and trust that His loving eye is upon you.

Adapted from Gratitude and Reflection: Paws and Purpose for Every Day, by Gail Scoates. September 2024. Grato Publishing. Page 4-5.

Link to the book on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGWXDFGY

ABOUT Gratitude And Reflection: Paws And Purpose For Everyday

Amid daily activities, we long to find hope, healing, and comfort. As I was looking for encouragement and some nourishment for my soul, my eyes fell upon my dog, curled up peacefully outside my office.

Looking for inspiration, I reflected on this possibility: Might I learn things about God and my relationship with him from my dog?

The Bible verses and short dog stories in this journal hope to help you consider that idea. Everyday topics invite you to ponder your faith and life journey by reflecting on memories, love, loss, and other personal points in time. As you dig deep and reflect, I pray you find a smile on your face and in your heart.

ABOUT GAIL SCOATES

An award-winning author of her first book, Paws, Purpose and Possibilities: How Therapy Dogs and Faith Healed My Heart, is a lady with a heart for God and for dogs. Her books remind us how God’s creation can teach us about God’s love. Retired from a long career in nursing, she trains and evaluates teams for therapy dog work, enjoys writing, and traveling. Check her website: https://pawspurpose.net/

She has published faith-inspired books with stories about dogs as well as healthcare articles. She established a hospital-based therapy dog program, trains and evaluates teams for therapy dog work, travels, and gardens. Gail resides in Wisconsin with her husband.

MY REVIEW *****

Dog lovers will especially enjoy this journal/devotional. With scripture references, the author skillfully relates the truth in the Scripture to how dogs show us the truth. In addition, she provides an opportunity for the reader to reflect and ends each passage with a significant and relatable quote. I recommend this book to all pet lovers.